Tamaudun Mausoleum

Tamaudun Mausoleum (玉陵), built in the early 16th century, is a royal burial site of the Ryukyu Kingdom’s royal family. Located near Shuri Castle, it was restored after significant war damage and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, part of the Castles of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The mausoleum features three chambers: the left for kings and queens, the right for princes and princesses, and the center for recently deceased bodies awaiting ritual bone cleaning.

Visitors can access the mausoleum for an entry fee, which includes admission to a small museum in the basement. The museum, though modest, provides valuable historical insights, displaying pre-war photos of the mausoleum and small models of the royal tombs behind closed doors. This site offers a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of Okinawa.